Images
Formula: Cu(UO2)2(PO4)2.8H2O
Hydrated normal phosphate, the prefix "meta" indicates that the mineral is a dehydration product of
torbernite; uranyl mineral,
meta-autunite group, forms a series with
metazeunerite
Crystal System: Tetragonal
Specific gravity: 3.52 to 3.70 measured, 3.71 calculated
Hardness: 2½
Streak: Pale green
Colour: Pale green to dark green
Luminescence: Not fluorescent under UV
Solubility: Moderately soluble in hydrochloric, sulphuric and nitric acids
Common impurities: Ca,Ba,Mg
RADIOACTIVE
Environments
Igneous environments
Hydrothermal environments
Metatorbernite typically is a secondary mineral,
formed as a dehydration product of torbernite, which is unstable; it also
may be formed directly above 75oC. Associated minerals include
torbernite and
meta-autunite
(HOM).
Localities
At the Margabal Mine, Entraygues-sur-Truyère, Rodez, Aveyron, Occitanie, France, green "mosaic" metatorbernite
has been found
(Mindat photo).
Metatorbernite from the Margabal Mine -
Image
There are two co-type localities, Schneeberg, Erzgebirgskreis, Saxony, Germany, and Redruth, Cornwall, England, UK.
Metatorbernite from Schneeberg - Image
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